“So Cara has been flirting, has she, and foolishly encouraging the good-looking Fritz?” “Not exactly that; but, you see, they grew up together, and she is so gay, and unconventional, and pretty.” “Ah, well, of course, you must go--but where?” “I am sure I don’t know. What do you advise?” “I advise England.” “On two hundred pounds a year--impossible! And now Cara is grown up she must be well dressed.” “So I see,” agreed Mrs. Hesketh, with significance. “That embroidered linen never cost a sou less than one hundred and fifty francs. Now, my advice is the same as ever, come and live at Oldcourt. I want your company badly; I’ve made a will, and left you every penny, so you really _ought_ to do something for me! As for Cara, she shall go to a good finishing school in Brighton for the next twelve months. I will, of course, pay all her expenses. Seventeen is much too young for a girl to come out into the world. You know that, Letty, from your own experience--don’t you?” “Yes, but Cara is different; she has decided views--no one could talk or coerce her into anything she did not wish to do.” “Ah!” “And she would laugh in your face, if you suggested sending her to school.” “Would she, indeed?” “You see, she has been at school at Mitzau, and Lucerne, ever since she was eight.” “And what has she learnt, besides the art of holding herself well, putting on her clothes, and offering her crude opinions?” “She speaks French and German, she plays and sings moderately, dances beautifully, and has won several tennis, and swimming prizes.” “And considers her education complete. I see. Well, we must take a little time, and talk things over; when I know more of Cara, I may be better able to help you to make up your mind. It is to give you this assistance, I’ve come all the way to Lucerne.” Then, speaking in another key, “Well, we shall meet to-morrow, and if you will fetch me, I’ll toil up to the farm, see how the land lies for myself, and have a look at Fritz. Now, as I am feeling extra old and tired, I must send you back to Les Plans,--for I am going to my dear bed.” CHAPTER XXX